Transit Safety Takes Center Stage As Tucson Seeks Public Input On Bus Security

TUCSON, AZ — Tucson residents will soon have a chance to weigh in on how the city plans to improve safety on public transit as officials launch a new community meeting series focused on security concerns.

The city's new Safe City Connect: Transit series will give residents a closer look at Tucson's Transit Safety and Security Action Plan and provide a forum to share feedback with city officials.

Topics will include security services, police patrols, bus stop improvements, incident tracking and the city's new Transit Ambassador Program. Residents will also have an opportunity to ask questions about the city's approach to improving safety on buses and at transit stops.

One issue that will not be part of the discussion: transit fares.

After some residents questioned why fares were not included, the city said the meetings are specifically focused on safety and security efforts, not fare policy.

"Transit fare policy decisions are under the authority of the Tucson Mayor and City Council and there are other appropriate venues to share perspectives and opinions about fares including: writing or calling your council member, speaking at Call to the Audience during meetings of the Mayor and Council, and attending forthcoming public engagement meetings related to the city budget," city officials said.

The city has scheduled four meetings over two weeks, including both in-person and virtual options.

The first meeting, for residents in Wards 1 and 5, will be held Aug. 10 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at El Pueblo Senior Center, 101 W. Irvington Road, Building 13.

A citywide virtual meeting will follow Aug. 11 from noon to 2 p.m. on Zoom.

Residents in Wards 3 and 6 can attend an in-person session Aug. 12 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Randolph Recreation Center, 200 S. Alvernon Way.

The final meeting, for residents in Wards 2 and 4, is scheduled for Aug. 13 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Ward 2 Office, 7820 E. Broadway Blvd.

Registration is required for all sessions. The city has posted registration links and additional meeting information on its website.